Looking at the mesmerising world and listening to the voices of the people around me made me wonder where I will eventually fit in and what my contribution will be.

I have come a long way since mumbling my first few words, forcefully crawling towards my most wanted toy, and taking my first steps. The life cycle starts slowly, but with effort, great heights can be achieved. After completing school, I enrolled at the University of Pretoria to study information technology. Suddenly, I was surrounded by career-driven students walking haphazardly into lecture rooms, voices echoing in hallways, and students anxiously searching for information in the libraries.

I am a final-year BIT (Information Systems) student. This degree offers exciting opportunities in the new digital economy. I want to pursue my dream of becoming a systems analyst and driving the development and design of different systems that will improve the productivity of various businesses and organisations.

The programme is constantly changing as a result of continuous innovation and the consequent availability of new tools, resources, and techniques. As an EBIT student, I have been granted the opportunity to take on various leadership roles. In my second year, I had the privilege of serving as the Secretary of the Junior Tukkie Student Ambassadors Society and of EBIT House. This year, I am the Chairperson of EBIT House and the SRC Academics Representative. In filling these roles, I have gained team-building skills and learned the value of good human relations and fostering potential.

The Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programme promotes creativity and encourages leaders to take risks in applying their knowledge. This will assist in developing problem-solving analysis and encourage adaptation to different scenarios. Programmes like these increase students’ confidence and encourage them to tackle problems with determination to become next-generation innovators.

My dream for Africa is that its people feel valued and proud, standing hand-in-hand in unity despite their differences. We should accept our flaws, celebrate our successes and bring forth a remarkable generation. Africa has a rich cultural and ethnic diversity, a unique heritage and much more. I would like to contribute to ensuring a better life for all and the dissemination of knowledge that will equip people to make remarkable contributions. Everyone has the potential to make a difference, and today is the day to take the first step!

Innovation is the gift that keeps on giving and is revolutionising the world. It is the result of continuous inspiring ideas, processes and developments and keeps everyone on the edge of their seats.